FROM

During an impassioned speech at the Miracle March for Lolita on January
17, the largest
protest in history for a captive whale, Jane Velez-Mitchell of
JaneUnchained.com called the Miami Seaquarium a “crime scene” to the
thunderous applause of over a thousand people from around the world who
descended upon Key Biscayne, Florida, to demand her freedom.

In an effort to discredit the March participants and continue making
millions off Lolita’s back, Seaquarium spokesperson Robert Rose misled
reporters, stating unequivocally that Lolita will die if released from her
tank into the ocean. He made no mention of the fact that she would first be
rehabilitated in a coastal sanctuary near her pod and would only be released
if she is deemed capable of surviving. The seaside pen would provide her
with space to swim, dive and be near or with other orcas, all of which have
been denied to her for the past 44 years. It would also bring an end to her
exploitation — being held captive and forced to perform tricks in exchange
for food.

Among the many highlights of the Miracle March for Lolita was a ceremony
during supermodel Joanna Krupa symbolically released Lolita from a tank
created by a human chain.

Events around the world were held in solidarity.

Orca conservation and animal rights groups will continue to fight for
Lolita’s release. Jared Goodman, PETA’s Director of Animal Law, says that,
by the end of January, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
(NOAA) will decide whether or not to designate Lolita a member of an
endangered group of whales. That decision could determine her fate.

The miracle March for Lolita was the brainchild of Robin Jewell, an
activist from Michigan with a hole in her heart and a vision for Lolita. On
a shoe string budget, Ms Jewell produced the entire event — securing the
permits, managing promotion and publicity, liaising with law enforcement,
recruiting speakers for the rally and coordinating the parade route, food
and entertainment. The flawless execution of the event was one of many
miracles of the Miracle March for Lolita.

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